@1axg. Obviously ERP targeted those 55+ plus, but one could argue, why target that demographic with the first exit offers in the first place? Back in the old days in US industry, the HC cut/layoff rule was first in, first out. Seniority counted for something. Now, seniority is a liability. It puts a target on your back. Second, the VSP/ISP list. I saw it. Because I was of the age and a VSP, by law they had to provide it to me. All the ISPs/VSPs were overwhelmingly over 40, most over 50. Why? Probably the focal system and just the natural progression of careers--to wit, the more senior you are, the longer your tenure, the more likely you have topped out and no longer have EEs and Os. The term they used in the QGS was "stagnant" employees. This was particularly the case with the nonstars--the admins, the support people, the tribal knowledge people, the more modest people who do great everyday work but don't know how to beat their own drum or jump from org to org. In many ways, and for once real and intentional purposes, the focal system culls to favor movers and shakers, not steady performers. I am not saying that is bad, but is is a fact. Focal also makes people compete against their own teammates for rank. Ironically, as part of that weird focal dynamic, you are right that my taking the ERP probably 'saved' someone else. Welcome to the Hunger Games.